The start of the school year is fast approaching but there is still enough summer left to enjoy a last-minute family getaway. Wichita – the Heart of the Country – is a cost-effective destination for families any time!

In addition to being easy on the wallet, the city is jam-packed with cultural experiences, shopping and delicious local restaurants. There are always fun events and a steady stream of concerts in Wichita no matter when you visit. Browse the full event calendar for upcoming activities taking place while you're here and take a look at our full list of things to do for even more inspiration. Be sure to view or download a digital version of our 2025 Spring/Summer Visitor Guide. 

A mother and father feed lemurs with their two young daughters at Tanganyika Wildlife Park

One-of-a-kind Animal Encounters

An unforgettable summer getaway awaits in Wichita, the Heart of the Country—perfect for families looking to mix adventure, outdoor fun, and one-of-a-kind animal experiences. At Sedgwick County Zoo, visitors can see more than 3,000 animals, including three baby African elephants born this year, with another expected soon. If all births are successful, the zoo will set a U.S. record for the most African elephants born at a single zoo in one year. Guests can also enjoy hands-on encounters with rhinos, penguins, horses, tortoises, and stingrays. Just west of the city, Tanganyika Wildlife Park offers an all-inclusive, up-close adventure where you can feed pygmy hippos, capybaras and lemurs, pet kangaroos, and cool off at the seasonal Tanganyika Falls Splash Park. Admission includes breakfast, snacks, lunch and all of your animal encounters. 

A family explores the Mid-American All Indian Musem exhibits

Unique museums and attractions

Experience hands-on fun, traveling exhibits and sensory-friendly activities at Wichita esteemed attractions and museums including: 

People look over the ring of fire at the Keeper of the Plains

In addition to visiting Wichita's fantastic museums and attractions, you’ll find lots of other free and affordable activities such as viewing the “Ring of Fire” at the Keeper of the Plains and taking selfies in front of murals and public art throughout the city.

Whether you're looking for fun outdoor adventures, like exploring nature and wildlife, or indoor places to stay cool like educational and hands-on experiences, you'll find things to do for the entire family.

Two children jump on beds in a hotel room in Wichita, KS

There is so much to do in the Heart of the Country, you'll have to book a hotel to be able to experience it all. Wichita has more than 8,100 rooms for every type of family, from affordable hotels to spacious family-friendly suites and top-of-the-line, full-service hotels in every region of the city. Hotels with pools, both indoor and outdoor, can be found at various price points as well. Find a place to stay with this guide.